So anyway, that was after my run on Monday.  On Weds., I warmed up on the treadmill and didn't have any noticeable pain in the hip, so decided to try a run.... started off, and it was sore, then about a third of a mile into it, it felt like something popped - probably just a ligament moving over something, not a tear, and really hurt too much to continue, so I walked back and figured I'd give it a week or so to see if it heals up.  It's still a bit sore when I walk around, but not bad.  It is convenient to catch a bug when I need to lay off the running anyway.  But I have a thanksgiving day race, so I'm hoping this will be okay soon!

Thanks for the tips.

After having to abort my run last Weds., I didn't run again until today, Monday.  During that time I've been doing some stretching, but not a whole lot.  Maybe it was just something that needed to heal up.

Today I stayed inside, and put in 2 miles on the treadmill, with no hip pain or discomfort.  It still feels fine... a wee bit sore when I stretch it, but really no discomfort while walking, going up stairs, etc.

Here's another thought.... Several days before it started hurting, I stopped carrying my wallet in my back pocket.  My wife has always said that doing this would cause trouble.  So I did it... started carrying it in my coat pocket.  I suspect... maybe... that my body took a little time to adjusting to not sitting with the wallet bulge in my pocket.  Maybe the change caused a strain, which took a little time to heal. ???  It's possible I guess.

As for going to an ortho.... am I the only person who can't afford to just go see an ortho or PT whenever something gets sore?  LOL!  Yeah, believe me, I would if I could, but it's not always entirely practical.  That's why it's good to get some feedback from other folks online.  I did go in and see an ortho dude when I had a bum heel a few months ago... so yeah, I know when to say when and see a pro!  Thanks though!

Yikes!

I'll be sure to continue the hip stretches!